share

book now
site-logo
Local Time
28 oC Temperature
  1. Home
  2. Blog
  3. Excitements of Festive Delights

Category: Travel Guide

Posted on

Excitements of Festive Delights

General Manager’s Message – November 2025

Dear Valued Guests,

Greetings from Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa.

It is an exciting time at Vilamendhoo — as always. A week ago, we celebrated Halloween with spooky decorations, dancing, and laughter shared among friends and family. The month of November is a great time for diving and snorkelling adventures, and December will bring even more fun with festive delights, Gala Dinners, and unforgettable parties.

This month is also a time to unwind and embrace the calm and peaceful moments. Treat yourself to a soothing treatment at Duniye Spa. Plan a romantic beach dinner for your loved one or enjoy a Teppanyaki dinner at Asianwok. Discover more of this month’s events available on our website. It will be useful in planning your holiday time perfectly.

For those still planning to visit us in December, our Beach Villa sepcial offers are ideal for last-minute winter travels. If you plan to travel later, do not miss out on the updates as they come our social media channels. My team and I look forward to seeing you visiting Vilamendhoo again.

We wish you sunny days and a wonderful season ahead.

Best Regards,

Mohamed Zahir,
General Manager

Experiences for December 2025

Speedboat Excursions
Manta & Turtle Trips
Experience the thrill. Capture unforgettable photos. Book Excursion

Whale Shark Trips
Better chances of encounters. Get more time for snorkelling. Book Excursion

Festive Fun – Learn Festive Activity Details
For families: Christmas Art Coloring, Gifts from Santa Claus, Vila Pool Games and more.
For everyone: Champagne & Canapé Evening, Christmas Cocktail Party & Christmas Carols, Vila Flare Show at Bonthi Bar Deck and More.

Posted on

A Warm October — Awaiting the Festivities of December.

Message from the General Manager — October 2025

Dear Valued Guests,

Greetings from Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa.

As we enter October, excitement is building on our island, and many celebrations are ahead. To mark International Coffee Day and International Vodka Day this month, our bar team has prepared exciting specials, blending unique flavours and beverages for you to enjoy. There is International Chefs Day and our fun-filled Halloween with a themed dinner and party — Remember to bring your Halloween costumes.

Looking ahead, November brings Maldives Republic Day and International Children’s Day, with special activities for families to enjoy together. For December, my team had put to gether a festive season program, filled with memorable events and celebrations leading up to Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

For those planning a December getaway, special offers are available for stays between December 1–26, on Adjoining Beach Villas and Standalone Beach Villas — perfect for a relaxing beach holiday before the year ends. Vilamendhoo is in high demand. If you plan to spend Valentine’s and Easter with us, I encourage you to book soon.

To make the most of your stay, we encourage all upcoming guests to download the Vilamendhoo mobile app, complete the online registration, and explore the many activities and experiences you can pre-plan for your holiday.

My team and I look forward to celebrating these wonderful moments with you soon in Vilamendhoo.

Best Regards,
Mohamed Zahir,
General Manager

Wonderful Experiences at Vilamendhoo

Silent Movie Night
See movies under the stars. With bubbly and canapés. See Options

Shisha Lounge
As dusk falls, unwind at the over-water lounge at the Asian Wok Restaurant. See the signature Shishas

Wednesdays
Join the Saxophone Night for pure relaxation and musical delight at Bonthi Bar from 5:30–7:00 pm and 9:00–11:00 pm.

 

 

Posted on

Nature, Wellness & the Experiences Guests Love

General Manager’s Message – September 2025

Dear Valued Guests,

Greetings from Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa.

Did you know Vilamendhoo’s motto is to give nature and guests the love they deserve? With one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, our turquoise waters are home to vibrant marine life waiting to be discovered sustainably through snorkelling and diving.

This September, we will celebrate World Tourism Day 2025 under the theme Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, with activities highlighting the beauty of our natural surroundings and the Indian Ocean. Guests can also join World Wellness Weekend and in October, we will celebrate International Chefs Day to appreciate our fantastic culinary team and Halloween fun for guests of all ages. In November, we look forward to the Maldives Republic Day and International Children’s Day.

There will be great value offers on resort experiences, including dining, in the coming months, which our guests can find out from the Mobile App or through your social media stories. Download the mobile app before you arrive, check-in online or plan your activities. Vilamendhoo also has a convenient desktop version to plan your itinerary.

Looking ahead, there is still limited availability for December 2025 stays. For summer 2026, enjoy up to 30% savings and our flexible Book Now – Pay Later option when reserving directly on our website.

My team and I look forward to welcoming to Vilamendhoo soon for a great sun, sand and sea escape.

Best Regards,

Mohamed Zahir,
General Manager

Experiences Guest Love at Vilamendhoo

Ocean Discover Tour
Sail aboard Gomafaru, our beautiful timber yacht. It’s a full-day trip focusing on three iconic snorkelling spots to discover Whale shark, Manta and Turtles. Learn More

Aqua Escape
Another half-a day trip to snorkel with the docile nurse sharks, with prismatic corals and a school of different fish. See Activity

Jacuzzi Water Villas
Perched above the lagoon with direct steps to the Ocean. Immerse in sea views the whole day. See Villa

Sunrise Group Yoga
Join the Duniya Spa team to combine sunrise watching and yoga. Join Yoga

Sunset Cruise in Style
Relax & enjoy an amazing Sunset, on our luxury Yacht,  enjoying a glass of sparkling wine and a selection of finger food. 90 minutes | $70 per person. See Activity

Full Moon Dinner
Every month, during full moon. The next is on 6 September. Make a Reservation

Posted on

Exciting Moments & August Offers

General Manager’s Message – August 2025

Dear Valued Guests,

Greetings from Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa.

August is full of exciting activities to make your holiday truly fun. As soon as you land by seaplane, you will be greeted with a warm welcome and the turquoise waters surrounding us. From the moment you arrive on the island, you can dip in the water. Snorkel on the house reef and spot your favourite fish just steps from your villa.

Plan your thrilling excursions or dives with our dedicated team. For the best availability, download the Vilamendhoo App before you travel. Use it to plan your itinerary and pre-book activities. You can also book your special beach dinners or à la carte dining.

Looking ahead, in September, join us during the World Wellness Weekend (19–21 September).Take part in Duniye Spa’s well-being activities, including yoga, sound baths, and more. This is perfect for couples’ quality time. In October, celebrate Halloween with fun family activities and themed events. In November, enjoy family excursions and promotions during International Children’s Day.

December brings us festivities that all our guests can enjoy. From decorative lighting around the island to pool games, Christmas cocktails, New Year Eve events and more, there are many activities for everyone to enjoy.

When you book your stay in Vilamendhoo, look for our special offers. Enjoy up to 35% off villa rates. During summer stays, child stays free, making family holidays even better.

We hope the upcoming months will be just as fun and memorable as the days our guests have enjoyed with us. My team and I look forward to welcoming you back soon.

Experiences to Cherish

Catch of the Day
Savour the Maldivian flavours with our Catch of the Day at Asian Wok. Choose steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried, paired with rice, noodles, or fresh salad. Our chefs promise a flavourful dish straight from the ocean. Learn More

Putting Green
If you enjoy afternoons playing tennis or badminton, you’ll love the complimentary Putting Green. Practice slow, steady golf swings on artificial greens surrounded by natural greenery —an ideal spot for a relaxing, fun game. Book Activity

Ocean Discovery
Go beyond the house reef with a full-day Ocean Discovery Excursion and explore South Ari Atoll’s gentle giants. Swim alongside whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks as our expert guides lead you to iconic snorkelling spots. Learn More

Posted on

Top Family-friendly Excursions in the Maldives

Recommended Family-friendly Excursions at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Vilamendhoo, a family-friendly resort located in the celebrated South Ari Atoll, has all the ingredients for family adventures – sun, sea, sand, and lots of excitement and fun! 

Featuring well-appointed family accommodations, facilities, and entertainment, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives provides a beautiful and safe holiday experience for you and your loved ones. We offer a plethora of activities that cater to guests of all ages, whether on-island or beyond the resort. 

Once you have explored a few amenities available on-site, such as our games room, volleyball, swimming pools and certainly, our soft sandy beach, it is time to go on an excursion or two to discover the awe-inspiring underwater world of the Maldives.

[Related: Scuba Diving and Snorkelers Calendar For South Ari Atoll Maldives »]

Here are our suggestions for the top family-friendly excursions in the Maldives

Whale Shark Excursion

Whale Sharks at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Just about an hour Dhoni boat ride away from our adventurer’s paradise, close to Maamigili Island, is the Whale Shark Point of the South Ari Atoll — known as the premier location in the world where divers and marine enthusiasts can spot these gentle giants throughout the year. 

Families joining this adventure can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience where they can swim alongside these magnificent creatures of the ocean. Our team will always be on hand and take the utmost care to be ecologically considerate during the excursion, so that you may enjoy this experience in a mindful and responsible way.

Recommended for families. Children aged 4 and above can take part in the trip accompanied by a parent.

See the full information here » Whale Shark Excursion with Vilamendhoo

Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion

Family Excursions - Vilamedhoo Maldives Resort

Join our Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion for a unique experience of the South Ari Atoll’s stunning marine ecosystem. This experience provides adventurous families with the chance to catch a glimpse of the Loggerhead, Leatherback, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Green Sea Turtle species. They can also discover several genera of Manta Rays which include Black Spotted Eagle, Torpedo, Feather Tails and Guitar.

Recommended for a families trip.  Children aged 4 and above can participate in the excursion.

See the full information here » Sea Turtle & Manta Ray Excursion

Vilamendhoo Family Snorkeling Adventure

Family Adventure on a Maldvian Dhoni - Vilamendhoo Maldives

This full-day excursion on a Dhoni is organised for families who would like to combine whale shark, sea turtle and manta ray encounters. During your family escapade on a traditional Maldivian boat, you will sail across the Indian Ocean, offering endless shades of blue, tropical skies above and lush island scenery in sight, with lots of swimming and snorkelling opportunities in between. 

Recommended for families with children from 4 years and up.

See the full information here » Full-day Family Snorkeling Adventure

Experience An Adventure-filled Family Holiday at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives 

Family-friendly Maldives Resort of Vilamendhoo

Located in the South Ari Atoll, an area renowned for stunning marine life and biodiversity, Vilamendhoo is a family–friendly Maldives resort, featuring facilities, amenities, and plenty of activities for a perfect holiday for the whole family.

View Vilamendhoo’s »  Family Holiday Experience

Have you booked your family holiday in the Maldives yet? Click here to view our special offers and deals. 

Posted on

Snorkelling and Diving with Whale Sharks in Vilamendhoo

The Whale Sharks of the Maldives

“…Second excursion was the full day to see the whale sharks. Obviously no guarantee but were able to swim with them in three different locations. ” – Ant_Woodley, Plymouth, United Kingdom, Oct 2023 – TripAdvisor

“I also did a vila snorkeling tour, swam with whale sharks and manta rays again.”
Xiaodong, United States of America – Sep2023 – Booking.com

Whale sharks used to visit the Maldives during the Southwest Monsoon season. But now, they seem to hang around the warm waters of the Indian Ocean all year round, specifically in the South Ari Atoll.

Spotting a slow-moving whale shark beneath the Maldives’ clear waters and even snorkelling above or diving alongside one is truly an incredible experience.

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is a gentle filter-feeding giant that belongs to the shark family and is the world’s largest fish. They swim by moving their 12-ton bodies from side to side, unlike their agile relatives, the sharks, that use their tails for swimming. 

“We also did the Whale Shark, Manta and Turtle excursion and were lucky enough to swim with all 3 which was a dream come true.” – Flavia, Australia July 2023 – Booking.com

Whale sharks can be seen in the plankton-rich waters near Vilamendhoo, and the Resort arranges snorkelling excursions. Diving with these magnificent creatures is also possible via our dive operator, Euro-Divers, based on the Resort. Whale sharks tend to favour the Western side of the Indian Ocean archipelago from May to December and then move to the Eastern waters from January to April. They can be spotted around the South Ari Atoll’s Maamigili Marine Protected Area (MPA). Vilamendhoo is situated in the South Ari Atoll and provides a strategic vantage point for megafauna enthusiasts as the Resort Island lies just in the path of whale shark feeding grounds.

[Related: Vilamendhoo’s Scuba Diving and Snorkelers Calendar For South Ari Atoll Maldives »]

Contact Vilamendhoo’s SEA department for further information about these gentle giants, the best time to spot them and to ask for whale shark excursion reservations.

Follow us on Facebook and see the latest whale shark spotting and amazing images by other divers and snorkelers.

“I was lucky enough to see three Whale Sharks whilst snorkelling between dives and a vast array of marine life. Eurodivers were great. Reasonable value.”
– SpaldingUKTraveller, Spalding, United Kingdom, Jan 2021 – TripAdvisor

“We swam with one of the largest whale sharks in the region. We saw mantas, turtles, dolphins, octopus, and beside that, we had a lot of fun on the boat that day! Great crew, thank you guys.”
– AnaP1718, Dec 2020 – TripAdvisor

Are you planning to explore the underwater world in the Maldives? Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is one of the best resorts in the Maldives for diving and snorkelling. Book direct and enjoy an array of special deals with flexible cancellation.

Posted on

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Prepares for the 2021 Festive Season

2021 Festive Season Vilamendhoo Maldives

2021 Festive Season at Vilamendhoo Island

If your ideal festive holiday requires idyllic beaches, relaxing ocean breezes, delectable culinary experiences, dreamy sunsets, and a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, then escaping to the Maldives is always a good idea.

So swap snow for sun, sea, and sand and enjoy a wonderful stay at Vilamendhoo Maldives, where all your dreams of a tropical holiday can come alive. 

The island of adventure of Vilamendhoo has put together an incredible programme of events and activities for your merriest festive season ever: Father Christmas’ island-style arrival, gala dinners, cocktail parties, live music performances, theme nights, Maldivian cultural shows, and much more! 

Furthermore, you can always enjoy a myriad of activities, such as the Ocean Discovery, encounters with whale sharks, snorkelling trips, world-class diving, and sunset cruises. 

Vilamendhoo looks forward to celebrating this magical time with you and your family. Our long sandy beaches, vibrant house reef, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences will guarantee you festive celebrations you will never forget.

Vilamendhoo 2021 Festive Season Maldives

Make the most of your stay on our island of adventure and ensure that you do not miss out on many of the spectacular experiences, activities, and offers available. Download the Vilamendhoo App to plan your itineraries and pre-book your activities. 

For further information about the festivities at Vilamendhoo and to make a reservation, please email reservations@vilamendhoo.com or call +960 668 0637. 

View our 2021 Festive Brochure here »

Travelling in the ‘New Normal’ – A Safe Holiday Experience at Vilamendhoo

Quick Links

Your Questions Answered Before You Travel |  Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort |  Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update  | Scuba Diving & Snorkelling Calendar

Posted on

Best Honeymoon Experiences in the Maldives

Best Honeymoon Experiences - Vilamendhoo Maldives

Best Honeymoon Experiences with Vilamendhoo Maldives

The Maldives is truly a lover’s paradise. Almost every round-up of the best destinations for romance includes the island nation, with a special mention of the over-the-top overwater bungalows, endless white-sandy beaches, and unique experiences for couples. 

Our island of adventure welcomes honeymooners and romantic travellers alike, with a vibrant house reef teeming with sea life, breathtaking tropical views, and a multitude of things to do for two. 

Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, or something a little more daring, you will have the honeymoon of your dreams at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa. 

Here Are the Top Things to Do on Honeymoon at Vilamendhoo: 

• Relax on some of the most picturesque beaches you could ever see 

• Snorkel with marine creatures such as sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of colourful fishes in the house reef

• Pamper yourself after a huge day of adventure at  the over-the-water Duniye Spa (listed as one of the best spa destinations in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia)

• Opt for a romantic beach dinner under a blanket of stars 

• Cruise around South Ari Atoll with our Ocean Discovery Excursion 

• Learn to scuba dive with Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo 

• Sip on a refreshing cocktail or two at Bonthi Bar while watching an incredible sunset 

• Explore the crystal-clear lagoon by paddleboard or kayak 

• Renew your vows amidst the inspiring beauty of the Indian Ocean 

• Capture those lovey-dovey moments to treasure for a lifetime with Vila Memories 

Over the Water or on the Beach?

Best Honeymoon Experiences - Vilamendhoo Maldives

Now that you have an idea of how to spend your honeymoon on our island of adventure, the only decision left to be made is whether you want to go for one of those exclusive Jacuzzi Water Villas, which offers you a direct access from your private deck straight into the ocean, or if you prefer to stay at a secluded Beach Villa amidst tropical greenery and just steps away from the palm-lined beach. View our Maldives Villas here »

Download the Vilamendhoo App

Vilamendhoo APP

To help you plan and enhance your experience in paradise, download our free mobile concierge app: the Vilamendhoo App, so you can start to design your itineraries and arrange your experiences. On top of that, you can also enjoy access to up-to-date resort information, weekly events, and much more! Download the app here »


Travelling in the ‘New Normal’ – A Safe Holiday Experience at Vilamendhoo
Quick Links

Your Questions Answered Before You Travel  |  Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort  |  Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update  | Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Calendar

Posted on

Swimming with Manta Rays in the Maldives at Vilamendhoo

Swimming with Manta Rays in the Maldives: A Maldives Bucket List Experience 

Many travellers who visit the Maldives add manta ray encounters to their bucket list of adventures, and a stay at Vilamendhoo, with its enviable location in South Ari Atoll, can fulfil all that and more.

Manta rays are truly magical to watch, and an up-close experience with these pelagic creatures is high on every traveller’s things to do in the Maldives.

Mantas, the queen of the ocean, can be seen at well-known manta hotspots and cleaning stations: Mahibadhoo and Rangali Madivaru, which are within easy reach of Vilamendhoo. Although mantas can be huge in size, they are harmless and pose no danger to humans. In fact, they are usually curious sea creatures and swim around snorkellers and divers.

Manta Rays in The Maldives with Vilamendhoo Island South Ari

Manta rays can be spotted in South Ari Atoll, particularly at Rangali – also known as Manta Point – a marine protected reef on the south of Rangali Kandu, cruising and feeding on plankton around the rich waters throughout the year. On the one hand, from May to October, manta ray sightings are more common, allowing divers and snorkellers to see them on almost a daily basis in larger congregations. 

The team at Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo will guide dive enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike to experience this unique wildlife adventure in a respectful and ethically considerate manner. 

Make sure to check our Facebook page and Instagram for the latest updates, and sign up for a diving or snorkelling trip when staying at Vilamendhoo. 

Book Now for the Maldives Manta Season – For Vilamendhoo, It’s All Year-round

Whether it be a solo getaway, a dive holiday with your friends, or an adventure-filled family vacation, Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa is here to provide you with a safe and beautiful holiday experience in paradise. 

Have you booked your Maldives getaway yet? Click here to view our special offers and deals. 

Staying at Vilamendhoo soon? Learn more about our ‘A Safe Holiday Experience’ enhanced health & safety guidelines.

Featured Image: Euro-Divers Vilamendhoo 

Posted on

Wellness Experiences To Try On Your Maldives Getaway

Wellness Experiences at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa 

At Vilamendhoo, we understand how important it is to be still able to relax and rejuvenate on your Maldives getaway whilst simultaneously engaging yourself in a range of adventure-filled experiences our idyllic destination has to offer. 

Offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, you have the opportunity to combine natural active activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and swimming, with a myriad of wellness and relaxation experiences such as yoga, spa, and holistic healing in our adventurer’s paradise. 

Here are the top three wellness experiences to try on your Maldives getaway at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa, whether you are on your romantic holiday or a family vacation.

Relax and Revitalise at Duniye Spa 

Wellness Experiences Maldives at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa - DUNIYE SPA

Duniye Spa is the top choice when it comes to taking some ‘pampering time’ here at Vilamendhoo; it is the quintessential destination to soothe the mind, body, and soul. The variety of treatments will take you on a blissful journey for the senses, using only carefully selected, sustainable, and organic products.

Choose your spa treatment here: Duniye Spa at Vilamendhoo

Join a Healthy Cooking Class at the Overwater Asian Wok Restaurant 

Be The Chef - Healthy Cooking Class at Vilamendhoo Maldives

Experienced and novice cooks alike may join an interactive on-request Maldivian culinary journey with our ‘Be the Chef’ cooking class, conducted at the overwater Asian Wok Restaurant. The culinary session allows you to learn how to prepare your favourite dishes, using fresh and natural ingredients from land and sea.

Learn more here: Culinary Experiences at Asian Wok Restaurant 

Stretch Yourself to Wellness with Yoga

Wellness Experiences Maldives at Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa

Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa offers both guided one-on-one and group yoga classes dedicated to helping you get your pose on and relax your mind, body, and spirit. Our calm and serene surroundings make the ideal setting to practice yoga. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, the yoga classes are suitable for all ability levels. 

To book your session, please contact the Reception upon your arrival. 

[Related: Discover the Perfect Spa Experience at the Overwater Duniye Spa »]

Guests staying with us here at Vilamendhoo soon may book these wellness experiences at the Reception or by emailing our team at reservations@vilamendhoo.com. 

Ready to Plan your Blissful Maldives Getaway? 

Do not hesitate to get in touch with our team about arranging your Maldives holiday. Guided by our purpose of care, we continue to allow maximum flexibility for the new normal traveller. Book with the freedom of FREE Cancellation on Room Rate for cancellation received three days before arrival.

A Safe Holiday Experience in Paradise at Vilamendhoo 

Quick Links: Health & Safety Guidelines |  Facilitating PCR Testing at the Resort |  Travel Flexibility & Cancellation Policy Update | Guest Reviews – Holidaying in the New Normal at Vilamendhoo

EN EN
X

book your stay